While driving to Vico Equense last Sunday evening, I couldn't help thinking about that sunset. That famous Il Bikini sunset when the sun has just about finished it's job of warming up the coast line, and makes its way down towards the sea giving off spectacular colors of orange and red. Last Sunday evening was a special dinner sponsored by Gazzetta Gastronomica to raise funds for earthquake victims in the Emilia region of Italy and conclude their 2 day 'A Pasta festival. I arrived just as a spectacular evening was about to begin, actually, had already started. Aperitivo hour with Ellenikos Groco spumante brut from Fattoria La Rivolta and Cobiki-a refreshing beverage with E' Curti's Nucillo and an organic chinotto.

Both were the choice for fried specialties such as sardines and potato croquettes prepared by Bikini's executive chef Mimmo de Simone.

When everyone had arrived, it was time to take our seats and be treated to a cool night under the stars...with the stars. Il Bikini's kitchen was the proud host for five chefs from five Michelin star restaurants.

At this point in the game, I wanted to stretch my legs and see what was going on in the kitchen. This is always an exciting place to be, standing off to the side, watching a team of chefs in action. Each helping each other out.

the calm before the storm...chefs Alfonso Caputo, Alessandro Negrini and Liberato Urru